Welcome to Derek DiPiazza's AE Senior Thesis e-Portfolio
Derek DiPiazza's Bio
Derek’s interest in buildings and construction began during his freshman year in high school. He learned about the workings of construction and buildings through drafting class and also via a position with a residential contractor. His interest was further developed in buildings after a trip to Europe where he had the privilege to see the phenomenal architecture that is displayed throughout Italy, Switzerland, and France. It was after this trip that Derek decided that his love of buildings and construction along with his outstanding academic background in math, sciences, and drafting, that he would pursue a degree in architectural engineering at The Pennsylvania State University.
Presently, Derek is earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architectural Engineering with a focus on Construction Management. He was honored this past spring for his work in the Architectural Engineering program when he was selected for the Pittsburgh Builders Association Scholarship Award. However, he also finds time for student organizations such as S:PACE (Student Chapter of the Partnership for Achieving Construction Excellence) and SSAE (Student Society of Architectural Engineers.) as well as time to play intramural softball, football, and basketball.
Over the last summer, Derek gained valuable knowledge and skills as an intern for the Forrester Construction Company. The responsibilities that he enjoyed were safety and MEP coordination, review/processing of submittals, buyout, and site maintenance.
Derek plans on graduating in August 2007. After graduation he will work for a prestigious company in the construction field and then obtain his PE and masters of business.